—How high-tech features make pools easier, healthier, and more efficient

Like so many other aspects of our lives, swimming pools have gone high-tech. The result: Today’s industry innovations and features are making pool ownership better than ever for fun, relaxation, and efficiency.

—Steer clear of these missteps after major wind, rain, and flooding hits your pool

Powerful storms and hurricanes create headlines and can cause catastrophic damage. Along with your home, your backyard can get hit hard by high winds and torrents of rain that leave your pool in need of serious care and possibly some repairs.

—How to protect against cryptosporidium and other chlorine-resistant organisms in your pool

Have you noticed more news reports chronicling outbreaks of dangerous microorganisms in public swimming pools? One pathogen, in particular, cryptosporidium, has been rearing its ugly head with greater frequency, passing along—yuck—gastrointestinal distress and other aggravating side effects.

—Negotiate a better home purchase price with an in-depth pool inspection

Seeking a new home with outdoor space for keeping cool, entertaining, and exercising? Many people are, and for these reasons, some house hunters see the advantage of buying a home with an existing inground swimming pool. With a ready-made backyard resort, you can begin enjoying a private aquatic leisure center on move-in day.

Ways to minimize chlorine’s impact on your body and other smart solutions

Although chlorine is highly effective for disinfecting swimming pool water, it comes with a price: This chemical can be harsh on your eyes, hair, skin, nails, and even your lungs.

Depending on your age, certain skin conditions, the amount of time you spend in the water, and how well the pool chemicals are balanced, chlorine’s effects can be particularly irritating or downright harmful to your skin.